Husqvarna SC18 Instruction manual

Workshop Manual
SC18 Sod Cutter
Removing Turf
Has Never Been Easier

Husqvarna Turf Care
700 Park Street
Beatrice, NE 68310
FX: 1.800.254.2473
Husqvarna Sod Cutter Workshop Manual P/N : 109869
Rev 1, 10/01/03

Service Manual
Sod Cutter SC-18
Contents Page
Introduction …………………………………………………………………. 3
Features & Controls ………………………………………………………… 6
Operating Instructions, Safety & Maintenance …………………………….. 7
Specifications & Tools ……………………………………………………… 13
Main Frame
1. Handle Attachment …………………………………………………… 14
2. Throttle Cable Adjustment …………………………………………… 15
Power Train
1. Axle Sprocket Location ……………………………………………… 16
2. Belt Keeper …………………………………………………………… 16
3. Chain Idler ……………………………………………………………. 16
4. Chain Routing & Adjustment ………………………………………… 17
5. Engine Removal ………………………………………………………. 17
6. Upper Pulley Location ………………………………………………... 18
7. Sprocket Location …………………………………………………….. 18
8. Transmission Adjustment & Replacement ...…………………………. 19
Blade Drive
1. Blade Drive Assembly ……………………………………….………... 20
2. Belt Tension …………………………………………………………... 20
3. Blade Arm Replacement ………………………………………………. 21
4. Lower Pulley ………………………………………………………….. 21
5. Bearing & Lock Collar ……………………………………………….. 22
6. “T” Drive Replacement ………………………………………………. 23
Depth Control
1. Depth Control ………………………………………………………… 30
Illustrated Parts Lists ………………………………………………………… 31
Troubleshooting …………………………………………………………….. 35
2

SOD CUTTING
Sod cutting cuts out existing sod by slicing a layer of soil with the grass and roots so it can be
rolled up and removed. Some applications could be for replacing a type of grass, turf removal,
adding a sidewalk or pathway, installing swimming pools or laying pipes or sprinklers. The usual
cutting depth is about 1 1/2 inches but can be used as deep as 2 1/2 inches. This application is
ideal for brick laying. The advantage in using a sod cutter is that it does not disturb the soil
beneath the cut.
PRODUCT FEATURES
Husgvarna's Sod Cutter has a four-speed transmission (two for cutting) with power reverse. The
cutting path is 18 inches wide. Low speed will cut 175 ft /min while second gear will cut 250
ft/min. The construction is of 7-gauge steel with l0-inch tractor tires and four-wheel drive.
The unit comes fully assembled except for the handle.
HANDLE ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
•Insert one side of the handle into the tube located in front of the large black rubber handle
mount. Make sure to keep the rubber sleeve on the standoff located on the handle.
•Spread the handle apart so that you can insert the other side of the handle in the same
manner as stated in step number one.
•Using the four 8 mm x 18 mm (Grd. 8) bolts, lockwashers and flat washers (flat washers
against the handle and lockwasher on top). Bolt the handle into the large black rubber
handle mount and tighten securely with Loctite.
•DO NOT CROSS THREAD THE BOLTS!
•Place the depth handle into the "U" brackets on the main handle and secure with the 5/16"
clevis pins and "C" clips.
•Attach the throttle cable to the clutch handle using the fasteners located on the cable
assembly as illustrated in Figure 1, making sure that the cable pivots freely after you have
tightened the bolts.
•The throttle cable needs to be hooked up to the throttle control handle, make sure the cable
pivots after tightening. Adjust tension if necessary.
*See Throttle Assembly in the Power Train Section for complete installation instructions.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Introduction
3

OPERATOR TIPS
•Soil conditions will affect the cutting depth. The ground may need pre-watering. Watering
the day before should be sufficient. .
•The grass should be dry to provide adequate traction.
•There are 4 transport speeds, only 2 cutting speeds. Always use 1 cutting speed until the
operator is familiar with the unit.
•Terminate cuts by disengaging the engagement handle and driving out of the ground by
holding the throttle open.
•Cut downhill on unleveled soil. Do not operate on hills exceeding 35% grade.
•Do not attempt sharp turns with the sod cutter. Do not attempt turns while on a hill.
•Run the unit while in transport, utilizing the reverse, to prevent premature tire wear on
cement and concrete.
BEFORE STARTING
•Make sure engine oil is at the manufacturer's recommended level.
•The reduction gearbox connected to the engine must be filled with oil per Honda owner's
manual. Both take lOw 30 oil.
•Place shift lever in neutral and raise blade before starting engine.
•Mark sprinkler heads and remove unwanted debris before using.
LOADING THE SOD CUTTER
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LIFT THE SOD CUTTER (320 pounds). The rental rate includes 2
ramps to load the unit into a truck or trailer. The unit can be driven on and off the truck by use of
the low gears, forward and reverse. Secure unit in truck or trailer.
SOD CUTTER OPERATION
•With engine running, put sod cutter in gear and lower blade by pulling back on
engagement handle.
•Only cut in the lowest two speeds as indicated by the scissors icon on the machine.
•Stop before shifting gears.
•The unit has a centrifugal clutch so the machine will not move until the throttle is
increased to above 1800 rpm. The maximum engine rpm is 3000.
•After cutting a few feet, stop unit to check depth of cut.
•Cut only deep enough to keep the sod intact and not damage the roots.
•The depth can be adjusted by turning the depth control knob clockwise for thin and
counterclockwise for thicker cut.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Introduction
4

MAINTENANCE
•Normal engine maintenance is required, check with owner's manual for specifics.
•Blade arm mounting and drive shaft must be properly tightened.
•Husgvarna-supplied belt allows for belt slippage.
•Inspect shaft, pulleys and keys for damage. Note: some pulleys have double set screws Use
blue Loctite on the set screws.
•The chains should be checked and adjusted after each use for the first fifty hours, every 20
hours after that.
•The chain can be adjusted from the rear without having to remove the skidpan.
•The chain must be lubricated with a dry chain lubricant to increase life.
•The depth adjustment knob and threaded screw must be lubricated frequently to prevent
rust and locking.
•Lubricate at all threads every 20 hours. Prevent direct water pressure in to the depth
adjustment assembly.
•The chain tension should be set with 1/4 -3/8" inch deflection between axle sprockets.
•Throttle cable and clutch cable should be checked before each use but should rarely need
attention once set properly.
•Belt tension can be increased by adjusting the cable.
•All pulleys should be checked for alignment and set screws for tightness. The lower drive
pulley has four setscrews.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Introduction
5

6

GENERAL INFORMATION
This information will assist you in the safe operation and proper maintenance of your Husqvarna
equipment. Read it thoroughly before attempting to operate the machine. Do not hesitate to call
your dealer or Husqvarna if additional information is required.
This equipment should not be modified without the manufacturer's prior written authorization.
Doing so without our written permission may not only affect the equipment’s performance and
durability, but also create safety hazards for the operator and the surroundings. Warranty will be
void if changes are made to the equipment without the manufacturer's prior written authorization.
SAFETY PROCEDURES
DO:
•Only start with shift lever in neutral.
•Read all maintenance and service instructions before attempting work.
•Follow engine manufacturer operating and maintenance instructions.
•Inspect area to be cut and remove rocks, wire, string and other objects that might
present hazard before starting.
•Identify and mark all in ground objects to be avoided, such as sprinkler heads, stakes,
water valves, clothesline anchors, etc.
•This machine was designed for sod cutting only. It is not intended for any other use.
DO NOT:
•Do not start in gear.
•Do not cut at high transport speeds.
•Do not use on any surface other than grass.
•Do not operate on slopes exceeding 35% grade.
•Do not place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts.
•Do not run engine in an unventilated area.
•Do not shift with throttle engaged.
•Do not run engine while servicing. Remove spark plug wire before servicing.
•Do not remove guards when operating.
•Do not lift this 330-lb. machine
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
7

OPERATOR'S TIPS
•To engage reverse gear you may have to push the machine back and forth while pulling the
shift lever.
•Stop before shifting gears.
•Cut going down hill on ground that is not level.
•End cuts by pushing the blade engagement lever forward while still holding the throttle to
cut the end of the sod strip as the blade rises.
•Soil conditions will effect cutting depth. Readjusting the blade depth may be required as
you move from hard soil to soft or moist soil conditions.
•Do not attempt sharp turns while cutting.
•Should I water before cutting?
It is usually not necessary to water before cutting. In extreme conditions, such as clay soil that is
very compacted, a simple test as follows will determine if you need to water before cutting. Use
a garden hand spade, weed tool, or even a large screwdriver to test the ground's hardness. You
should be able to push the tool into the ground 2 to 3 inches with little effort.
If you are unable to do so, then watering may be advisable. Watering the day before should give
sufficient time for the soil to absorb the moisture. Use your hand tool to gauge the effectiveness
of your watering. Allow the grass to dry before cutting to provide adequate traction for sod
cutting.
OPERATING ON HILLS
WARNING – DO NOT operate on hills exceeding 35% grade to prevent machine from rolling
over. Please be aware that when operating on hills, you may experience:
•The need to exert greater effort to steer and maintain the balance of the machine.
•Uneven cutting depth, when operating across a hill. The shifted center of gravity may
cause the downhill side of the blade to penetrate to the maximum depth, while the uphill
side may not.
With these factors in mind, you may find it more effective to:
•Operate the machine cutting down rather than across hills. You will achieve even cutting
depth and enhance stability.
•Avoid hillside turns. Back up hills in reverse gear, then cut, going down.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
8

BEFORE YOU START
•Read and understand this manual.
•Be sure engine oil is at engine manufacturer's recommended level. (Refer to engine
Manufacturer’s manual.)
•Put the sod cutter into neutral before starting.
•Place blade in transport position before starting.
TRANSPORTING
•Push the blade engagement lever forward to raise the blade.
•Select the desired gear (slow - fast - reverse).
•Pull the throttle while maintaining a firm grip on the handlebar.
•To make turns, push down on the handlebar to do "a wheelie," then turn.
•Load into truck or trailer by driving up ramps in low gear. DO NOT LIFT! This 330-lb.
machine is not intended to be lifted by hand.
SOD CUTTING (See Figure - Page 3)
1) Position the sod cutter at your starting point with the blade out of the ground.
2) Pull the blade engagement lever toward you with one hand while lifting the handlebar with
the other hand.
3) Place the shift lever in slow gear (turtle icon).
4) Pull the throttle while maintaining a slight down pressure on the handlebar and cut a short
distance, then stop. Put shift lever in neutral.
5) Lift the edge of the sod to check the cut depth.
6) To change the depth, push the blade engagement lever forward, unlock the depth lock knob
(red knob), and turn the depth adjustment knob clockwise for less depth, or counterclockwise
for more depth; then lock the depth lock knob.
7) Repeat steps 2 through 6 as necessary to set depth of cut.
End cuts by pushing the blade engagement lever forward while holding the throttle to cut the end
of the sod strip as the blade exits the ground.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
9

CAUTION
*Any modifications or additions to this equipment without written authorization from the
manufacturer will void all manufacturers’ warranties.
*Do not operate this machine without first reading owner’s manual.
*Husqvarna parts have been designed and specified to meet commercial operating standards for
strength and durability. For reliability and preservation of design safety standards, replacements
should only be made with genuine Husqvarna parts or material of equivalent type and strength.
TWO MINUTE WARNING
Sod Cutters may be tipped on their engine guard for cleaning and access for no more than 2
minutes. Engine damage may result from gasoline draining into the crankcase if prolonged. See
engine manufacturer's operating and maintenance instructions.
ENGINE SERVICE AND WARRANTY
Contact your nearest engine manufacturers authorized servicing dealer for engine service and
warranty questions. Follow the engine manufacturers’ maintenance instructions. Should any mal-
function occur with the engine during the warranty period, take it to an Authorized Service
Dealer.
•DO NOT tear down the engine, as this may void the Engine Manufacturer's Warranty.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
10

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
A) INSPECTION SCHEDULE
Item Each Use Every 20 hours
Engine Oil (see engine manual) ♦
Clutch Tension ♦
Chain Tension ♦
Decals and Warnings ♦
Fasteners and fittings ♦
Throttle cable ♦
Blade condition and wear ♦
Frame condition (rust, cracks, etc.) ♦
Clutch and cable ♦
Excessive vibration ♦
Engine air cleaner (see engine manual) ♦
Depth adjuster ♦
B) LUBRICATION SCHEDULE
Item Lubricant Every 20 hours Every 60 hours As Required Storage
Engine Oil
Oil - See
Owners Manual
♦♦♦
Chain
30 W Motor oil or
Chain Lubricant
♦♦♦♦
Linkage 30W oil ♦
Grease depth
adjust screw ♦♦
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
11

1 ½’ or Less
Maintain Lower Surface
BLADE WEAR
Sod Cutter blades may wear quickly depending on soil condition. Replace blade when worn to
1½” (3.8 cm) or less. Maintain lower blade surface.
CLEANING AND WASHING
Regular cleaning and washing will prolong the service of your machine.
Note: Use care with power washers to avoid damage to Warning Decals, Operator Instruction
Labels, Bearing, Chain and Engine. Avoid direct spray on these items,
*DO NOT EXCEED 1000 PSI WATER PRESSURE FOR CLEANING.
ADJUSTING CHAIN TENSION
UPPER CHAIN
•No adjustment is required.
LOWER CHAIN
•Remove chain guard.
•Tilt the Sod Cutter forward onto the front weight.
•Tighten the ½” lock nut on the chain idler until the #40 chain flexes approximately ¼”
(6mm) at mid span.
•Install chain guard.
•Set Sod Cutter back to level.
STORAGE
1) Refer to engine manufacturer’s instructions for engine storage information.
2) Clean machine.
3) Cover all scratches with touch up paint.
4) Lubricate according to Lubrication Schedule on previous page.
5) Lightly oil or mil board paint blade to inhibit rust.
6) Covered or indoor storage is recommended.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Operating Instructions
Safety & Maintenance
12

TOOLS NEEDED FOR SERVICING THE SC18 SOD CUTTER
REQUIRED TOOLS
The following tools are required to repair
the sod cutter:
•Assorted open and box end Wrenches,
Ratchet and Sockets plus Extensions
3/8” 7/16” 1/2” 9/16” 5/8” 3/4” 1 1/8”
•Hex head Wrenches
•Metric Sockets
10mm through 15mm
(for engine cover removal)
•Long Nose Pliers
•Penetrating Oil
•Grease or Anti Seize Compound
•5/32 Hex head in a 3/8” Socket
ADVISED TOOLS
The following tools are very helpful:
•Air Ratchet with Sockets
•½” Impact Wrench
•1 1/8” Socket
SC18 Sod Cutter
Specifications & Tools
13

HANDLE ATTACHMENT
** Important **
* Use the following steps to install the handle assembly on your new Husgvarna Sod Cutter
1. Insert one side of the handle into the tube located in front of the large black rubber handle
mount. Make sure to keep the rubber sleeve on the standoff located on the handle.
2. Spread the handle apart so that you can insert the other side of the handle in the same manner
as stated in step number one.
3. Using the four 8 mm x 18 mm (gr. 8) bolts, lockwashers and flat washers (flat washers
against the handle and lockwashers on top), bolt the handle into the large black rubber handle
mount and tighten securely with loctite. DO NOT CROSS THREAD THE BOLTS!
4. Place the depth handle into the “U” brackets on the main handle and secure with the 5/16”
clevis pins and “C: clips.
5. Attach the throttle cable to the clutch handle using the fasteners located on the cable
assembly as illustrated in Figure 1, making sure that the cable pivots freely after you have
tightened the bolts.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Handle Attachment
14

THROTTLE CABLE ADJUSTMENT
1. Identify and remove wing nut and air filter cover.
2. Remove wing nut and air cleaner element.
3. Loosen cable screw to allow throttle cable free movement through cable screw.
4. Engage throttle/clutch handle at operator handle. You may need an assistant or a rubber band
to hold handle in position.
5. Rotate throttle lever until tab on throttle lever contacts idle speed screw, remove slack from
throttle cable and tighten cable screw.
6. Release throttle/clutch handle and check that idle speed screw contacts tab on throttle lever
when throttle/clutch is engaged at operator handle.
7. Readjust throttle cable in necessary.
8. Re-install air cleaner element, wing nut, air filter cover and wing nut.
Located on Carburetor under Air Cleaner Element
SC18 Sod Cutter
Handle Attachment
15

AXLE SPROCKET LOCATION
The axle sprocket is located 4 and ½ inches
from the flush end of the axle to the flat side
of the sprocket. This is a very critical
measurement. Both front and rear sprockets
use the same spacing.
See picture at right.
BELT KEEPER
The belt keeper prevents the belt from
coming off during operation. Proper
adjustment is necessary to prevent wear and
insure correct performance. The correct
position touches the belt on the right side
(from the operator’s position) during blade
disengagement but does not touch during
blade engagement.
CHAIN IDLER REMOVAL
Remove spring and remove the bolt holding
idler with 9/16 wrench. Please note the
location of the two spacers for re-installation
later.
CHAIN IDLER INSTALLATION
When installing the idler arm the sprocket
faces rear and is inside of the chain. The two
spacers must be together on the rear side of
the idler arm. When installing the bolt,
tighten enough to allow movement of arm.
Attach spring to frame.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Power Train
16

CHAIN ROUTING
The chain can be replaced by disconnecting the master link on the old chain and hooking
up the new chain to the old one. Pull the free end of the old chain until the new chain is
pulled through.
Re-connect the chain with the new master link.
To replace a broken chain the skid pan will have to be removed and the unit turned
upside down. Refer to the routing guide below for assistance.
ADJUSTING CHAIN TENSION
•The chain adjuster is in front of the left rear tire.
Using a stubby 1/2” wrench tighten the lock nut on the chain idler until the #40 chain
flexes approximately 1/2” ( 12mm) at mid span.
ENGINE REMOVAL
1. Disconnect the throttle cable at the
handle; remove the spring that
connects the two throttle cables
from the upright.
2. Do not disconnect the cable at the
engine.
3. Undo the engine bolts and tilt the
engine rearward to remove the
chain and belt.
Front Axle
Idler Sprocket
Transmission
Sprocket
Rear Axle
SC18 Sod Cutter
Power Train
17

UPPER PULLEY LOCATION
The top pulley is located next to the sprocket
with the hub facing the hub on the sprocket.
The pulley will be off the shaft by about
3/16”.
When re-installing, a 3/16” spacer and two
washers will hold the pulley tight to the
shaft.
SPROCKET LOCATIONS
The top sprocket (p/n 3109) on the engine is
located 1/2 inch from the engine case.
This measurement is with the chain off.
The sprocket has the hub facing outward,
away from the engine.
The sprocket on the lower drive
transmission is up against the snap ring.
SC18 Sod Cutter
Power Train
18

TRANSMISSION SHIFTER
ADJUSTMENT
Inspect the linkage for tightness before
making any adjustments. The unit very
seldom requires adjustment.
To adjust the linkage, undo the bolt holding
transmission shifter in place.
The rod end can now be turned to give you
more or less travel. You should be able to go
into reverse before bottoming out the lever.
If reverse is correct the other gears will be
correct. The rod end at the bottom of the
linkage can also be adjusted to give more
adjustment potential.
TRANSMISSION REPLACEMENT
The transmission has to come out through
the bottom.
The engine should be removed to facilitate
the operation. Engine removal is covered in
the “T” drive replacement section.
The front weight has to be removed.
With the engine and weight removed turn
unit upside down to access the transmission.
Remove the skidpan.
Access the input sprocket, which has to be
removed. The sprocket has a “C” clip and
set screws.
Remove the four bolts from the
transmission. The front axle assembly has to
be removed to remove the transmission. Lift
out without disconnecting the chain to
facilitate replacement.
Disconnect the linkage as it attaches to the
transmission. The transmission can now be
removed.
Installation is in the reverse order of
disassembly.
TRANSMISSION LINKAGE
TRANSMISSION MOUNTING BOLTS
& SPROCKET
TRANSMISSION
SC18 Sod Cutter
Power Train
19